Netflix’s Greater Kalesh marks an interesting addition to the growing list of Indian original dramas rooted in family relationships and festive emotions. Directed by Aditya Chandiok and penned by Ritu Mago, the film stars Ahsaas Channa, Supriya Raina Shukla, and Poojan Chhabra in lead roles. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Diwali in Delhi, the story captures the quirks, affection, and hidden tensions that define most middle-class Indian families. At just 52 minutes, it’s short and snappy—sometimes too brisk for its own good—but it delivers a heartwarming message about love, home, and acceptance.
Story
The film follows Twinkle, a young professional based in Bengaluru, who returns home to Delhi for Diwali. What she expects to be a festive reunion with her parents and younger brother, Ankush, quickly turns complicated. The siblings discover that their beloved family home doesn’t actually belong to them. Their parents are anxious about Ankush’s secret relationship, while Twinkle struggles to open up about her own boyfriend.
As the family prepares for Diwali, tempers rise, secrets unfold, and unexpected guests stir up further confusion. Twinkle’s return triggers a series of events—lost household items, awkward confrontations, and emotional revelations—that push everyone to face uncomfortable truths. Between the laughter, squabbles, and last-minute preparations, the film cleverly mirrors the chaos that comes with family bonds. Ultimately, Greater Kalesh reminds viewers that although families may be messy, their love remains the strongest constant.
Performances
Ahsaas Channa, a familiar face on OTT platforms, carries the narrative with a vibrant and relatable performance. She balances humor and vulnerability, portraying Twinkle as both headstrong and emotionally grounded. Supriya Raina Shukla shines as the mother, infusing warmth and energy into her role, while Poojan Chhabra brings charm and sincerity to Ankush’s character. Supporting actors such as Happy Ranajit and Akshaya Naik add flavor and authenticity, rounding out a believable ensemble.
Behind the Scenes
Cinematographer Shikhar Bhatnagar gives the film a vivid visual palette, blending festive hues with the intimacy of a lived-in home. The production design captures the little details of a bustling Indian household—the fairy lights, the cluttered corners, and the emotional undercurrents that make Diwali special. Anshul Thakkar’s soothing background score adds an emotional rhythm, keeping the story rooted in warmth even during tense moments.
While the screenplay could have explored the mother’s perspective in greater depth, the concise 52-minute runtime ensures the story never drags. The writing is breezy and accessible, striking a good balance between slice-of-life realism and festive feel-good energy.
Final Verdict
Greater Kalesh is a refreshing attempt at creating an Indian festival-themed original for streaming audiences—something we rarely see outside the Christmas movie craze. It’s a film that feels both familiar and fresh, showcasing the ups and downs of family life through the lens of Diwali celebrations.
Though not without a few narrative hiccups, it succeeds in its core purpose: to make you smile, reflect, and appreciate the imperfect beauty of family. With relatable characters, engaging performances, and heartfelt messaging, Greater Kalesh earns its place as a charming addition to Netflix’s Indian originals.
